Today, as we mark the first anniversary of the Finance Bill protests, KICTANet is deeply concerned to note that Kenyan telecommunications companies and Internet Service Providers—including Safaricom PLC, Jamii Telecommunication Ltd, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies —have restricted access to Telegram. Users have also reported widespread throttling of internet speeds on these networks.
KICTANet strongly condemns this action. The restrictions on internet access and blocking of Telegram is a clear violation of the constitutional rights of Kenyans to freedom of expression, access to information, association, and assembly.
We call upon Safaricom, JTL, Liquid and all ISPs in Kenya to:
– Immediately restore full access to Internet and Telegram.
– Respect and uphold the digital rights of all Kenyans.
– Cease any actions that undermine our democratic freedoms and the open internet.
KICTANet stands with all Kenyans in demanding an open, free, and secure Internet for all.
#KeepItOn.